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A bowl of yellow rice, pomegranate seeds, nuts, sauces, and meats. — The brisket rice at KG BBQ.

The 38 Essential Restaurants in Austin

A guide to the city's defining restaurants spanning all cuisines, neighborhoods, and price ranges

by Nadia Chaudhury and Erin Russell Updated Apr 9, 2024, 6:23pm CDT

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The brisket rice at KG BBQ.

| KG BBQ

by Nadia Chaudhury and Erin Russell Updated Apr 9, 2024, 6:23pm CDT

What are the best restaurants in Austin, those essential spots that should not be missed? Eater Austin’s Eater 38 aims to show you where to eat across the Texas city, with restaurant recommendations fit for any situation. The list spans numerous cuisines and budgets, collectively satisfying every need from food trucks to fine dining spots. These are the 38 restaurants and food trucks that truly define Austin.

Every quarter, Eater Austin updates the map to add pertinent restaurants, whether it’s because they have become newly eligible (our standard is a spot must have been open for at least six months) or revamped their menus or services. The aim is always to keep the list inclusive and reflective of the Texas city. The spring 2024 update adds Egyptian-Texan barbecue truck KG BBQ and vegan fine-dining restaurant Fabrik.

For a running list of past featured restaurants, head to the Eater Austin 38 archive. For other Austin picks, check out the heatmap, a collection of the city’s hot new dining options.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Interstellar BBQ

Yes, there are many excellent barbecue spots in Austin, so to stand out, restaurants have to nail the staples while also offering something special. Enter this northwest Austin smoked meats joint from the team behind beloved but gone Noble Sandwich Co. The attentive way the team works with the meats clear: There are citrusy, juicy turkey breasts, sweet-savory peach tea-glazed pork belly, and the ideal brisket. It’s a counter service-style spot and yes, expect lines on weekends. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in areas.

12233 Ranch Rd 620 N suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

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A barbecue tray with meats, pickles, and sides from Interstellar BBQ. — A barbecue tray from Interstellar BBQ

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Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian

Within Austin’s South Asian food scene is a small but strong contingent of North Indian/Nepalese restaurants. Of those, this casual Barrington Oaks restaurant is marvelous, serving the greatest hits from the Indian subcontinent, including all sorts of momos, chow mein, chilis, dals, meats, and biryanis. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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8650 Spicewood Springs Rd STE#148, Austin, TX 78759

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A plate of dumplings. — Momos at Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian.

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Ramen Del Barrio

Crowned best restaurant of 2023 by Eater Austin, up in Scofield Farms, is all about Japanese Mexican ramen. The steaming bowls from chef Christopher Krinsky are fun, creative, and great: there’s the carnitas tonkotsu, mole tsukemen, and more. Then there are the yaki-tacos, where the skewered meats come in tacos. The restaurant is tucked away within the Hana World Market food court. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor dine-in services.

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727

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Two bowls of ramen. — Ramen from Ramen del Barrio.

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Con Todo

Chef Joseph Gomez highlights the culinary wonders of the Rio Grande Valley through his North Austin truck, and don’t call the menu Tex-Mex. Rather, he explores the true depths of Mexican food along the border of south Texas. This means handmade tacos full of vegetables paired with salsa macha or beef with queso fresco, tostadas topped with chorizo and potatoes, and more. And as always, all tacos are made con todo — “with everything” — meaning cilantro, onions, and salsas. There’s a good reason the truck won Eater Austin’s best food truck of 2022 and was one of Eater’s Best New Restaurants nationally that same year. Place orders in person; host site Celis Brewery has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

10001 Metric Blvd, Austin, TX 78758

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A plate of three tacos. — Tacos from Con Todo.

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Usta Kababgy

This casual Middle Eastern restaurant in North Austin focuses on delectable halal grilled meats. There are all sorts of kebabs, from lamb-and-beef adana to chicken, as well as shawarma bowls and wraps. The lahmajun (meat flatbread) is really nice, as are the falafels and dolmas. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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9310 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

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A container of yellow rice, grilled vegetables, a salad, hummus with spices, and two long meat kebabs. — The kebab plate at Usta.

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House of Three Gorges

The casual North Austin Sichuan restaurant offers some of the best regional Chinese in the city for lunch and dinner. Find specialties like red braised pork belly, spicy Jumping Fish, and brisket in a radish soup. Uber Eats and DoorDash takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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8557 Research Blvd Suite 144, Austin, TX 78758

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A variety of Sichuan dishes from House of Three Gorges including soup, noodles, and vegetables arranged on a dark wooden tabletop. — A variety of Sichuan dishes at House of Three Gorges

Korea House

Dining at the casual Korean restaurant in North Shoal Creek is a perfectly homey experience. The menu is a traditional one, loads of stews (budae jjigae and the seaweed-y miyukguk), kimbap, and kimchi jeon. Then there’s the fun grill-it-yourself barbecue setup with all sorts of meats, such as galbi and duck breasts. The physical space is beautiful and cozy as well, with a pond outside and many group-friendly tables. And it’s a place for the community: co-owner Mrs. Kim opens up the restaurant to free meals monthly to those who need it. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757

Food in black packages. — Doshirak from Korea House.

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Bufalina Due

Owner Steven Dilley and his pizzeria teams continue to impress diners at this Brentwood restaurant and the East Austin location. The Neapolitan pies are simple but skillfully executed; under chef Eli Rodriguez, you can’t go wrong with the exemplary margherita and specials such as the potato and Parmesan pie, alongside stracciatella and Caesar salads. And the pasta game has never been as good as it is now. Wine nerds will dig the intriguing and affordable bottles selected by wine managers Brianna Leahy and Lauren Williamson, along with wine director Rania Zayyat. Takeout orders can be placed online (Brentwood, East Austin only on the weekends); there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

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A pizza. — Pizza from Bufalina.

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Bird Bird Biscuit

This fast-casual shop from Brian Batch and Ryan McElroy serves delightful biscuit sandwiches in Brentwood and from their original location down in Cherrywood. The chicken sandwiches aren’t to be missed, especially the sweet and spicy Queen Beak, with black pepper honey and chipotle mayonnaise. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1401 W Koenig Ln, Austin, TX 78756

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A hand holding up a biscuit sandwich with a piece of fried chicken, thick slices of pickles, some lettuce, and a white sauce — A sandwich from Bird Bird Biscuit

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Foreign & Domestic

Co-owners and chefs Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley are still knocking it out of the park at this North Loop restaurant with their fresh energy and ideas. The New American menu is familiar, but has been spruced up since the restaurant’s original owner sold it to the couple in 2017, with soothing dishes like short rib campanelli and Parisian gnocchi. Adventurous eaters should seek out the offal dishes, such as chicken liver mousse. The neighborhood restaurant works as well for spontaneous meals as it does for special occasions. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751

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A plate of risotto. — A risotto dish from Foreign & Domestic.

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Komé

Co-owners Také and Kayo Asazu transformed their popular sushi trailer Sushi A-Go-Go into a full-blown laid-back North Loop restaurant, offering their takes on homestyle Japanese fare. Along with impeccable sushi and affordable rolls, the lunch menu features bentos for those seeking a little bit of everything, as well as loaded donburi bowls (the hokkai-don is a richly indulgent one, with salmon sashimi, ikura, and scallops; add the uni if it’s available). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

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5301 Airport Blvd #100, Austin, TX 78751

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Pieces of sushi. — Sushi from Kome.

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JewBoy Burgers

El Paso native Mo Pittle honors his Jewish heritage and Texas border city upbringing with his food truck-turned-restaurant in North Loop that is certainly not kosher. The dinner menu centers on burgers and burritos, filled with beef, cheese, Hatch green chiles, and even latkes. There are also chili dogs and sides like queso. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

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A halved burger. — A burger from JewBoy Burgers.

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Asti Trattoria

The casual neighborhood sit-down restaurant in Hyde Park serves up classic Italian dishes for dinner and brunch. There are always stellar pastas and risottos (the rigatoni amatriciana is a good bet), alongside stand-out desserts and sides. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

408 E 43rd St C, Austin, TX 78751

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Pasta with mushrooms and cheese on a white plate. — Pasta from Asti Trattoria.

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L'Oca d'Oro

Under co-owner and chef Fiore Tedesco, the Mueller Italian restaurant serves up a thoughtful menu full of house-made pasta and well-prepared vegetables, like bucatini or grilled cabbage. All the while, Tedesco and co-owner and general manager Adam Orman have been championing the rights and well-being of restaurant workers, such as paying fair wages and advocating for the Austin industry in general through nonprofit Good Work Austin. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723

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A table of a plate of pasta, a cocktail, and a bread. — Pasta at L’Oca d’Oro.

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Texas French Bread

While, yes, the building housing the exquisite bakery and restaurant in the Heritage neighborhood was destroyed in a devastating fire in early 2022, Texas French Bread is still going strong, albeit in a different format for now. As owner Murph Willcott works to rebuild the physical space, the bakery is operating as a food truck in its garden for breakfast and lunch, serving sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. Lunch preorders can be placed online or in person; there are outdoor dining areas.

2900 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705

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A turkey sandwich. — The turkey sandwich at Texas French Bread.

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KG BBQ

Given that it is Austin, there are a lot of barbecue restaurants in town, with some of them on this map. And this MLK smoked meat trucks from pitmaster Kareem El-Ghayesh stands out because of the incredible Egyptian-Texan menu. Smoke works well for both cuisines, which makes it even better when combined into dishes like pork ribs glazed with pomegranate seeds and za’atar, kebabs, and turmeric rice studded with brisket and tahini. Takeout orders can be placed online or in-person; host site Oddwood Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

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A tray of ribs, a cardboard tray of rice and nuts and a dessert in a container. — Barbecue from KG BBQ.

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Dai Due

The Cherrywood New Texan restaurant — which is so regionally minded that even beer and wine are exclusively from the state — is equally satisfying for lingering brunch or a blowout feast at dinner. The restaurant version of this former farmers market stand/supper club from owner/chef Jesse Griffiths is everything Austin could have hoped for. He even won a James Beard Media Award for his tome about wild hogs. The Texas-forever menu under executive chef Janie Ramirez has heavier dishes like dry-aged wagyu babyback ribs, quails stuffed with boudin noir, grilled chicken hearts, and coffee-cured antelope leg filets, as well as lighter fare like mixed greens salads and grilled cabbage. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

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A giant piece of meat on bone on a plate with leafy greens on top of it. — A meat dish from Dai Due.

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Hoover's Cooking

Owner and chef Hoover Alexander has been bringing a good ol’ mix of Southern soul fare to Cherrywood for over 25 years with his homey restaurant. The menu highlights staple dishes done extremely well, from the chicken-fried steak and the fried chicken to any of the sweet pies. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are Favor deliveries available; and there are indoor dine-in services.

2002 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

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Southern dishes from Hoover’s Cooking — Food at Hoover’s.

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Olamaie

The fancy downtown Southern restaurant is a sensational dining experience. There are inventive plates from current Top Chef contender chef de cuisine Amanda Turner and executive chef Michael Fojtasek. This means dishes such as smoked cabbage or the blackened dayboat fish with blue crab sauce and Carolina Gold rice. Then there’s the amazing cocktail and wine menu. The restaurant itself is elegant and offers high-class service. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701

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A plate of food. — A dish from Olamaie.

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Fabrik

Through this fine-dining tasting menu restaurant in the Blackland neighborhood, co-owner and chef Je Wallerstein shows the delicate power of high-end vegan dishes. There’s a five- and seven-course tasting menu full of plates that pull from her Japanese, Italian, and Nordic trainings. This means seasonal items like golden beetroot dumplings with smoked almond ricotta or springy sourdough focaccia topped with a butter. And, yes everything is — again — sans animal products. Book reservations online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702

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A bread with vegetables on top of it. — A dish from Fabrik.

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Birdie's

This casual Chestnut neighborhood wine bar, which won Eater Austin’s best neighborhood wine bar of 2021, can be found on the east side with a giant patio with an ever-rotating menu of simple dishes done right. There’s usually handmade pasta, a rich steak and vegetables dish, and a variety of wine-friendly seasonal appetizers like roasted carrots and pesto. Don’t skip the creamy soft serve for dessert or the after-dinner drinks. There are no reservations, as it’s a walk-up joint. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2944 E 12th St Unit A, Austin, TX 78702

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A plate of potatoes and steak. — Steak and potatoes at Birdie’s.

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Nixta Taqueria

The funky little taqueria, from co-owners Edgar Rico (the James Beard Awards’ emerging chef of 2022) and Sara Mardanbigi, has quickly become a taco darling for good reason. Rico works magic into every single one of the East Austin spot’s new-school tacos and tostadas. While the meatier items are terrific, the vegetarian options really showcase his inventive skills: The beet tartare is a pure work of art. For something more special, check out its taco omakase services. Thankfully, the restaurant is back to operating at full-service, with multiple patios are optimal for spreading out. The natural wine list is worth exploring. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A blue plate with a circular tostada with pink beets on it. — The beet tartare tostada from Nixta Taqueria.

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Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum

Chef Ling Qi Wu has grown into a bona fide restaurateur with multiple restaurants and more to come around the city. It is through the somewhat casual Clarksville restaurant — her first — that diners can get a taste of what she does best: simple yet high-quality Chinese and pan-Asian dishes, such as her iconic soup dumplings, Sichuan cucumbers, and salt-and-pepper lobster tails. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

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A dish from Lin Asian Bar — A dish from Lin Asian Bar.

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Better Half Coffee & Cocktails

This all-day cafe was named Eater Austin’s restaurant of 2018, and still, co-owners Matt and Grady Wright and Matthew Bolick continue to deliver fantastic service and convivial vibes. The West Fifth space feels appropriately Austin with its large patio, great coffee, and a first-rate lineup of beer and wine. The menu is full of laid-back dishes with lovely touches like breakfast sandwiches layered with hash brown patties or the iconic cauliflower tots. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

406 Walsh St, Austin, TX 78703

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Two plates of food, one with a sunny-side-up egg and a broth and the other with a sandwich with a cup of latte and a drinks menu on a wooden table. — Food and coffee at Better Half.

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Shirley's Trini Cuisine

For casual and amazing Caribbean fare, look no further than this East Austin food truck. It’s where owner and chef Janelle Romeo serves up great Trinidadian dishes like doubles, curried goat, rotis, and jerk chicken. Preorders can be placed online; takeout orders in person; and there are outdoor dine-in areas.

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1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702

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Chickpeas in brown sauce on a bed of crunchy fried bread. — Doubles from Shirley’s Trini Cuisine.

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Veracruz All Natural

At the essential Austin food truck, sisters Reyna and Maritza Vazquez make the best tacos in the city, served on handmade corn and flour tortillas with fresh salsas. It’s not a complete order without the migas taco and an agua fresca. Takeout and delivery orders are placed online or in person for all of its locations, plus the Veracruz Fonda restaurant in Mueller; most locations include indoor areas and all have outdoor dine-in areas.

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2505 Webberville Rd, Austin, TX 78702

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A plate of two tacos. — Tacos from Veracruz.

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Canje

The East Austin Caribbean restaurant, was named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2022, pays tribute to executive chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s Guyanese roots with dishes like buttery roti, wild boar pepper pot, and jerk chicken with chef de cuisine Harvard Aninye. Since it’s a Bristol-Joseph project, don’t overlook the desserts, especially the tres leches cake. The restaurant has an upscale tropical vibe, with fruity but balanced cocktails, a large bar, and a small outdoor patio. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1914 E 6th St ste c, Austin, TX 78702

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Three pieces of dark-roasted chicken on a large green leaf next to a bowl of reddish sauce with green sprinkled leaves. — The jerk chicken at Canje.

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Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop

The historic Mexican bakery, founded in 1962 by Joe and Paula Avila and now run by their granddaughter Regina Estrada who oversees the two generations that run the family restaurant, is a pillar of the East Austin community in two ways. First, there’s the exceptional daytime menu, from the wonderfully tender and juicy barbacoa breakfast and the migas to the lunch tacos. Then there is its community service: Estrada is an advocate for East Austin, making sure people are informed about what’s going on in local politics and even directly registering voters. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A white oval plate with a crispy taco, rice, refried beans, and enchiladas covered in yellow cheese sauce. — Crispy beef taco, rice, beans, and chicken enchiladas from Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. from Joe’s.

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Toshokan

The East Austin Japanese spot has become one of the city’s best omakases around, so much so that it won Eater Austin’s best omakase of 2022 award. Even though the restaurant had to relocate into a new space in East Austin within the Pershing East venue, the vibe remains the same. Executive chef Saine Wong offers an awesome intimate meal, featuring well-crafted nigiri and other bites in a setting that feels like a fun little party. Reservations can be made online, and plan ahead: It books up quickly. There are indoor dine-in services.

2415 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78702

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Raw fish in a bowl. — A bite from Toshokan.

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Odd Duck

At his relaxed Zilker restaurant, chef and partner Bryce Gilmore and the rest of the team embrace Texas ingredients through the New American menu. There are magnificent dishes (stuffed quail, pecan mole pork shoulder with a gordita) and on-point desserts (salted caramel budino, chocolate-masa icebox cake). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

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A plate of sliced steak next to cut green beans and sauce. — Steak at Odd Duck.

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La Barbecue

The city has an embarrassment of world-class smoky meats, and this East Austin spot gives Franklin Barbecue a run for its money. After all, the barbecue joint is from the late LeAnn Mueller, who hailed from the legendary Texas barbecue family dating back to 1949; La Barbecue is now solely run by Mueller’s wife, Ali Clem. Go for the brisket, sausages, and any of the inventive sandwiches. Be sure to order the superb shells and cheese made with smoked vegetables and a little spicy kick. The deli menu also includes tinned fish, cheeses, and caviar. Takeout orders are placed online (order in advance to bypass the line); there is in-person ordering; and there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

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Several white cardboard trays of meats and pickles and peppers with slices of white bread on butcher paper. — Dishes at La Barbecue.

Justine's

This East Austin restaurant has all the makings of a prime neighborhood dining stop: French food with an east-side twist in a convivial atmosphere. There are steak frites, escargot, duck confit, and ratatouille, along with a hefty burger topped with Gruyere cheese. Plus, the reasonably priced wine list means this tucked-away gem is set up perfectly for a long, lingering meal. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A table full of food dishes. — Dishes at Justine’s.

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Bouldin Creek Cafe

Beloved by residents of the 78704 and beyond, this cafe in Bouldin Creek from owner Leslie Martin offers a varied menu of vegetarian fare paired with locally roasted coffee, and a taste of very-old-school Austin in the forms of aesthetics and food. The vegetable sandwiches are legitimately delicious, as is the tofu scramble. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

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A plate of tacos. — Tacos at Bouldin Creek Cafe.

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El Naranjo

The Mexican finer-dining restaurant in the South Lamar neighborhood delivers the best taste of interior Mexico in Austin, thanks to co-owner Iliana de la Vega, the James Beard Award-winning chef in the first-ever Texas category, and her daughter chef Ana Torrealba. The menu focuses on fare from Oaxaca — where de la Vega is from — like rich moles (the duck is a must-order) and hearty cochinita pibil. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2717 S Lamar Blvd STE 1085, Austin, TX 78704

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A person holding up a blue tortilla with a shrimp on it with one hand and spooning a bowl of shrimp with the other — The camarones y hongos a la macha from El Naranjo.

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Casper Fermentables

Some of the city’s best bagels and sandwiches are made at this little casual Sunset Valley deli run by the farmers market stand of the same name. The menus draw from Korean and Jewish food traditions — given the background of co-owner Ben Hollande. During the early daytime, it serves sourdough bagels, with cream cheeses, smoked lox, tuna salads, and more. Then the later-in-the-day lunch offerings include amazing sandwiches made with its springy focaccia bread — the spicy turkey sandwich with Sichuan oil and the kimchi tuna melt are must-orders. Round out the meal with one of its fantastic rugelachs. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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4715 S Lamar Blvd #101A, Sunset Valley, TX 78745

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Lots of bagels. — Bagels from Casper Fermentables.

Dee Dee

Chef Lakana Trubiana cooks up a small but mighty Thai menu from this South Lamar neighborhood truck. The flavorful Isan-style dishes (rooted in the northern region of Thailand) range from comforting om gai to a very spicy laab moo. In the summer, the mango sticky rice is worth it. Takeout orders can to be placed online; host site Radio has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

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Boxes of food. — Dishes at Dee Dee

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Taste of Ethiopia II

Owner Woinee Mariam expanded the notable Pflugerville Ethiopian restaurant into the St. Edwards neighborhood. There’s a stellar array of East African dishes, including stews, spiced meats (the chicken-based doro wot is particularly outstanding), and simmered vegetables, all served with injera, a round spongy bread. Go for the sampler, which comes with a bunch of vegetarian dishes such as shiro wot (ground peas stew) and gomen (steamed and spiced chopped collard greens), along with some honey wine. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone; there are indoor dine-in services.

3801 S Congress Ave #107, Austin, TX 78704

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A metal plate of sauces and hole-y bread. — The doro wot at Taste of Ethiopia II.

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Where to Eat and Drink Around St. Edward’s University

Distant Relatives

The McKinney food truck has grown into an essential Austin barbecue spot — there’s a reason Eater named it one of the best restaurants in the country and in the city in 2021. James Beard Awards semifinalist pitmaster Damien Brockway and his team showcase the foodways of the African American diaspora through a deceivingly casual menu. There are succulent chicken legs paired with a chile-vinegar dip, pillowy pulled pork with tangy tamarind-molasses barbecue sauce, and superb sides like burnt ends mixed with black-eyed peas. Takeout orders can be placed in person; host site Meanwhile Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744

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Six dishes in brown cardboard boxes, including nuts, beans, pickled vegetables, and more. — Sides from Distant Relatives.

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Interstellar BBQ

12233 Ranch Rd 620 N suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

Yes, there are many excellent barbecue spots in Austin, so to stand out, restaurants have to nail the staples while also offering something special. Enter this northwest Austin smoked meats joint from the team behind beloved but gone Noble Sandwich Co. The attentive way the team works with the meats clear: There are citrusy, juicy turkey breasts, sweet-savory peach tea-glazed pork belly, and the ideal brisket. It’s a counter service-style spot and yes, expect lines on weekends. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in areas.

12233 Ranch Rd 620 N suite 105, Austin, TX 78750

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A barbecue tray with meats, pickles, and sides from Interstellar BBQ. — A barbecue tray from Interstellar BBQ

Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian

8650 Spicewood Springs Rd STE#148, Austin, TX 78759

Within Austin’s South Asian food scene is a small but strong contingent of North Indian/Nepalese restaurants. Of those, this casual Barrington Oaks restaurant is marvelous, serving the greatest hits from the Indian subcontinent, including all sorts of momos, chow mein, chilis, dals, meats, and biryanis. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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8650 Spicewood Springs Rd STE#148, Austin, TX 78759

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A plate of dumplings. — Momos at Himalaya Kosheli Nepali & Indian.

Ramen Del Barrio

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727

Crowned best restaurant of 2023 by Eater Austin, up in Scofield Farms, is all about Japanese Mexican ramen. The steaming bowls from chef Christopher Krinsky are fun, creative, and great: there’s the carnitas tonkotsu, mole tsukemen, and more. Then there are the yaki-tacos, where the skewered meats come in tacos. The restaurant is tucked away within the Hana World Market food court. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor dine-in services.

1700 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727

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Two bowls of ramen. — Ramen from Ramen del Barrio.

Con Todo

10001 Metric Blvd, Austin, TX 78758

Chef Joseph Gomez highlights the culinary wonders of the Rio Grande Valley through his North Austin truck, and don’t call the menu Tex-Mex. Rather, he explores the true depths of Mexican food along the border of south Texas. This means handmade tacos full of vegetables paired with salsa macha or beef with queso fresco, tostadas topped with chorizo and potatoes, and more. And as always, all tacos are made con todo — “with everything” — meaning cilantro, onions, and salsas. There’s a good reason the truck won Eater Austin’s best food truck of 2022 and was one of Eater’s Best New Restaurants nationally that same year. Place orders in person; host site Celis Brewery has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

10001 Metric Blvd, Austin, TX 78758

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A plate of three tacos. — Tacos from Con Todo.

Usta Kababgy

9310 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

This casual Middle Eastern restaurant in North Austin focuses on delectable halal grilled meats. There are all sorts of kebabs, from lamb-and-beef adana to chicken, as well as shawarma bowls and wraps. The lahmajun (meat flatbread) is really nice, as are the falafels and dolmas. Takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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9310 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

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A container of yellow rice, grilled vegetables, a salad, hummus with spices, and two long meat kebabs. — The kebab plate at Usta.

House of Three Gorges

8557 Research Blvd Suite 144, Austin, TX 78758

The casual North Austin Sichuan restaurant offers some of the best regional Chinese in the city for lunch and dinner. Find specialties like red braised pork belly, spicy Jumping Fish, and brisket in a radish soup. Uber Eats and DoorDash takeout and delivery orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

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8557 Research Blvd Suite 144, Austin, TX 78758

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A variety of Sichuan dishes from House of Three Gorges including soup, noodles, and vegetables arranged on a dark wooden tabletop. — A variety of Sichuan dishes at House of Three Gorges

Korea House

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757

Dining at the casual Korean restaurant in North Shoal Creek is a perfectly homey experience. The menu is a traditional one, loads of stews (budae jjigae and the seaweed-y miyukguk), kimbap, and kimchi jeon. Then there’s the fun grill-it-yourself barbecue setup with all sorts of meats, such as galbi and duck breasts. The physical space is beautiful and cozy as well, with a pond outside and many group-friendly tables. And it’s a place for the community: co-owner Mrs. Kim opens up the restaurant to free meals monthly to those who need it. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2700 W Anderson Ln (Village Shopping Center), Austin, TX 78757

Food in black packages. — Doshirak from Korea House.

Bufalina Due

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

Owner Steven Dilley and his pizzeria teams continue to impress diners at this Brentwood restaurant and the East Austin location. The Neapolitan pies are simple but skillfully executed; under chef Eli Rodriguez, you can’t go wrong with the exemplary margherita and specials such as the potato and Parmesan pie, alongside stracciatella and Caesar salads. And the pasta game has never been as good as it is now. Wine nerds will dig the intriguing and affordable bottles selected by wine managers Brianna Leahy and Lauren Williamson, along with wine director Rania Zayyat. Takeout orders can be placed online (Brentwood, East Austin only on the weekends); there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

6555 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78757

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A pizza. — Pizza from Bufalina.

Bird Bird Biscuit

1401 W Koenig Ln, Austin, TX 78756

This fast-casual shop from Brian Batch and Ryan McElroy serves delightful biscuit sandwiches in Brentwood and from their original location down in Cherrywood. The chicken sandwiches aren’t to be missed, especially the sweet and spicy Queen Beak, with black pepper honey and chipotle mayonnaise. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are outdoor dine-in areas.

1401 W Koenig Ln, Austin, TX 78756

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A hand holding up a biscuit sandwich with a piece of fried chicken, thick slices of pickles, some lettuce, and a white sauce — A sandwich from Bird Bird Biscuit

Foreign & Domestic

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751

Co-owners and chefs Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley are still knocking it out of the park at this North Loop restaurant with their fresh energy and ideas. The New American menu is familiar, but has been spruced up since the restaurant’s original owner sold it to the couple in 2017, with soothing dishes like short rib campanelli and Parisian gnocchi. Adventurous eaters should seek out the offal dishes, such as chicken liver mousse. The neighborhood restaurant works as well for spontaneous meals as it does for special occasions. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

306 E 53rd St, Austin, TX 78751

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A plate of risotto. — A risotto dish from Foreign & Domestic.

Komé

5301 Airport Blvd #100, Austin, TX 78751

Co-owners Také and Kayo Asazu transformed their popular sushi trailer Sushi A-Go-Go into a full-blown laid-back North Loop restaurant, offering their takes on homestyle Japanese fare. Along with impeccable sushi and affordable rolls, the lunch menu features bentos for those seeking a little bit of everything, as well as loaded donburi bowls (the hokkai-don is a richly indulgent one, with salmon sashimi, ikura, and scallops; add the uni if it’s available). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

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5301 Airport Blvd #100, Austin, TX 78751

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Pieces of sushi. — Sushi from Kome.

JewBoy Burgers

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

El Paso native Mo Pittle honors his Jewish heritage and Texas border city upbringing with his food truck-turned-restaurant in North Loop that is certainly not kosher. The dinner menu centers on burgers and burritos, filled with beef, cheese, Hatch green chiles, and even latkes. There are also chili dogs and sides like queso. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

5111 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

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A halved burger. — A burger from JewBoy Burgers.

Asti Trattoria

408 E 43rd St C, Austin, TX 78751

The casual neighborhood sit-down restaurant in Hyde Park serves up classic Italian dishes for dinner and brunch. There are always stellar pastas and risottos (the rigatoni amatriciana is a good bet), alongside stand-out desserts and sides. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

408 E 43rd St C, Austin, TX 78751

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Pasta with mushrooms and cheese on a white plate. — Pasta from Asti Trattoria.

L'Oca d'Oro

1900 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723

Under co-owner and chef Fiore Tedesco, the Mueller Italian restaurant serves up a thoughtful menu full of house-made pasta and well-prepared vegetables, like bucatini or grilled cabbage. All the while, Tedesco and co-owner and general manager Adam Orman have been championing the rights and well-being of restaurant workers, such as paying fair wages and advocating for the Austin industry in general through nonprofit Good Work Austin. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723

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A table of a plate of pasta, a cocktail, and a bread. — Pasta at L’Oca d’Oro.

Texas French Bread

2900 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705

While, yes, the building housing the exquisite bakery and restaurant in the Heritage neighborhood was destroyed in a devastating fire in early 2022, Texas French Bread is still going strong, albeit in a different format for now. As owner Murph Willcott works to rebuild the physical space, the bakery is operating as a food truck in its garden for breakfast and lunch, serving sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. Lunch preorders can be placed online or in person; there are outdoor dining areas.

2900 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705

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A turkey sandwich. — The turkey sandwich at Texas French Bread.

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KG BBQ

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

Given that it is Austin, there are a lot of barbecue restaurants in town, with some of them on this map. And this MLK smoked meat trucks from pitmaster Kareem El-Ghayesh stands out because of the incredible Egyptian-Texan menu. Smoke works well for both cuisines, which makes it even better when combined into dishes like pork ribs glazed with pomegranate seeds and za’atar, kebabs, and turmeric rice studded with brisket and tahini. Takeout orders can be placed online or in-person; host site Oddwood Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723

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A tray of ribs, a cardboard tray of rice and nuts and a dessert in a container. — Barbecue from KG BBQ.

Dai Due

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

The Cherrywood New Texan restaurant — which is so regionally minded that even beer and wine are exclusively from the state — is equally satisfying for lingering brunch or a blowout feast at dinner. The restaurant version of this former farmers market stand/supper club from owner/chef Jesse Griffiths is everything Austin could have hoped for. He even won a James Beard Media Award for his tome about wild hogs. The Texas-forever menu under executive chef Janie Ramirez has heavier dishes like dry-aged wagyu babyback ribs, quails stuffed with boudin noir, grilled chicken hearts, and coffee-cured antelope leg filets, as well as lighter fare like mixed greens salads and grilled cabbage. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

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A giant piece of meat on bone on a plate with leafy greens on top of it. — A meat dish from Dai Due.

Hoover's Cooking

2002 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Owner and chef Hoover Alexander has been bringing a good ol’ mix of Southern soul fare to Cherrywood for over 25 years with his homey restaurant. The menu highlights staple dishes done extremely well, from the chicken-fried steak and the fried chicken to any of the sweet pies. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are Favor deliveries available; and there are indoor dine-in services.

2002 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

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Southern dishes from Hoover’s Cooking — Food at Hoover’s.

Olamaie

1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701

The fancy downtown Southern restaurant is a sensational dining experience. There are inventive plates from current Top Chef contender chef de cuisine Amanda Turner and executive chef Michael Fojtasek. This means dishes such as smoked cabbage or the blackened dayboat fish with blue crab sauce and Carolina Gold rice. Then there’s the amazing cocktail and wine menu. The restaurant itself is elegant and offers high-class service. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1610 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701

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A plate of food. — A dish from Olamaie.

Fabrik

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702

Through this fine-dining tasting menu restaurant in the Blackland neighborhood, co-owner and chef Je Wallerstein shows the delicate power of high-end vegan dishes. There’s a five- and seven-course tasting menu full of plates that pull from her Japanese, Italian, and Nordic trainings. This means seasonal items like golden beetroot dumplings with smoked almond ricotta or springy sourdough focaccia topped with a butter. And, yes everything is — again — sans animal products. Book reservations online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1701 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Unit 102, Austin, TX 78702

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A bread with vegetables on top of it. — A dish from Fabrik.

Birdie's

2944 E 12th St Unit A, Austin, TX 78702

This casual Chestnut neighborhood wine bar, which won Eater Austin’s best neighborhood wine bar of 2021, can be found on the east side with a giant patio with an ever-rotating menu of simple dishes done right. There’s usually handmade pasta, a rich steak and vegetables dish, and a variety of wine-friendly seasonal appetizers like roasted carrots and pesto. Don’t skip the creamy soft serve for dessert or the after-dinner drinks. There are no reservations, as it’s a walk-up joint. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2944 E 12th St Unit A, Austin, TX 78702

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A plate of potatoes and steak. — Steak and potatoes at Birdie’s.

Nixta Taqueria

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

The funky little taqueria, from co-owners Edgar Rico (the James Beard Awards’ emerging chef of 2022) and Sara Mardanbigi, has quickly become a taco darling for good reason. Rico works magic into every single one of the East Austin spot’s new-school tacos and tostadas. While the meatier items are terrific, the vegetarian options really showcase his inventive skills: The beet tartare is a pure work of art. For something more special, check out its taco omakase services. Thankfully, the restaurant is back to operating at full-service, with multiple patios are optimal for spreading out. The natural wine list is worth exploring. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2512 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A blue plate with a circular tostada with pink beets on it. — The beet tartare tostada from Nixta Taqueria.

Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

Chef Ling Qi Wu has grown into a bona fide restaurateur with multiple restaurants and more to come around the city. It is through the somewhat casual Clarksville restaurant — her first — that diners can get a taste of what she does best: simple yet high-quality Chinese and pan-Asian dishes, such as her iconic soup dumplings, Sichuan cucumbers, and salt-and-pepper lobster tails. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor dine-in services.

1203 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

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A dish from Lin Asian Bar — A dish from Lin Asian Bar.

Better Half Coffee & Cocktails

406 Walsh St, Austin, TX 78703

This all-day cafe was named Eater Austin’s restaurant of 2018, and still, co-owners Matt and Grady Wright and Matthew Bolick continue to deliver fantastic service and convivial vibes. The West Fifth space feels appropriately Austin with its large patio, great coffee, and a first-rate lineup of beer and wine. The menu is full of laid-back dishes with lovely touches like breakfast sandwiches layered with hash brown patties or the iconic cauliflower tots. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

406 Walsh St, Austin, TX 78703

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Two plates of food, one with a sunny-side-up egg and a broth and the other with a sandwich with a cup of latte and a drinks menu on a wooden table. — Food and coffee at Better Half.

Shirley's Trini Cuisine

1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702

For casual and amazing Caribbean fare, look no further than this East Austin food truck. It’s where owner and chef Janelle Romeo serves up great Trinidadian dishes like doubles, curried goat, rotis, and jerk chicken. Preorders can be placed online; takeout orders in person; and there are outdoor dine-in areas.

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1326 Rosewood Avenue, Austin, Texas 78702

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Chickpeas in brown sauce on a bed of crunchy fried bread. — Doubles from Shirley’s Trini Cuisine.

Veracruz All Natural

2505 Webberville Rd, Austin, TX 78702

At the essential Austin food truck, sisters Reyna and Maritza Vazquez make the best tacos in the city, served on handmade corn and flour tortillas with fresh salsas. It’s not a complete order without the migas taco and an agua fresca. Takeout and delivery orders are placed online or in person for all of its locations, plus the Veracruz Fonda restaurant in Mueller; most locations include indoor areas and all have outdoor dine-in areas.

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2505 Webberville Rd, Austin, TX 78702

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A plate of two tacos. — Tacos from Veracruz.

Canje

1914 E 6th St ste c, Austin, TX 78702

The East Austin Caribbean restaurant, was named Eater Austin’s best new restaurant in 2022, pays tribute to executive chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s Guyanese roots with dishes like buttery roti, wild boar pepper pot, and jerk chicken with chef de cuisine Harvard Aninye. Since it’s a Bristol-Joseph project, don’t overlook the desserts, especially the tres leches cake. The restaurant has an upscale tropical vibe, with fruity but balanced cocktails, a large bar, and a small outdoor patio. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1914 E 6th St ste c, Austin, TX 78702

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Three pieces of dark-roasted chicken on a large green leaf next to a bowl of reddish sauce with green sprinkled leaves. — The jerk chicken at Canje.

Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702

The historic Mexican bakery, founded in 1962 by Joe and Paula Avila and now run by their granddaughter Regina Estrada who oversees the two generations that run the family restaurant, is a pillar of the East Austin community in two ways. First, there’s the exceptional daytime menu, from the wonderfully tender and juicy barbacoa breakfast and the migas to the lunch tacos. Then there is its community service: Estrada is an advocate for East Austin, making sure people are informed about what’s going on in local politics and even directly registering voters. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone or in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

2305 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A white oval plate with a crispy taco, rice, refried beans, and enchiladas covered in yellow cheese sauce. — Crispy beef taco, rice, beans, and chicken enchiladas from Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. from Joe’s.

Toshokan

2415 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78702

The East Austin Japanese spot has become one of the city’s best omakases around, so much so that it won Eater Austin’s best omakase of 2022 award. Even though the restaurant had to relocate into a new space in East Austin within the Pershing East venue, the vibe remains the same. Executive chef Saine Wong offers an awesome intimate meal, featuring well-crafted nigiri and other bites in a setting that feels like a fun little party. Reservations can be made online, and plan ahead: It books up quickly. There are indoor dine-in services.

2415 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78702

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Raw fish in a bowl. — A bite from Toshokan.

Odd Duck

1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

At his relaxed Zilker restaurant, chef and partner Bryce Gilmore and the rest of the team embrace Texas ingredients through the New American menu. There are magnificent dishes (stuffed quail, pecan mole pork shoulder with a gordita) and on-point desserts (salted caramel budino, chocolate-masa icebox cake). There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

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A plate of sliced steak next to cut green beans and sauce. — Steak at Odd Duck.

La Barbecue

2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

The city has an embarrassment of world-class smoky meats, and this East Austin spot gives Franklin Barbecue a run for its money. After all, the barbecue joint is from the late LeAnn Mueller, who hailed from the legendary Texas barbecue family dating back to 1949; La Barbecue is now solely run by Mueller’s wife, Ali Clem. Go for the brisket, sausages, and any of the inventive sandwiches. Be sure to order the superb shells and cheese made with smoked vegetables and a little spicy kick. The deli menu also includes tinned fish, cheeses, and caviar. Takeout orders are placed online (order in advance to bypass the line); there is in-person ordering; and there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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2401 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

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Several white cardboard trays of meats and pickles and peppers with slices of white bread on butcher paper. — Dishes at La Barbecue.

Justine's

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

This East Austin restaurant has all the makings of a prime neighborhood dining stop: French food with an east-side twist in a convivial atmosphere. There are steak frites, escargot, duck confit, and ratatouille, along with a hefty burger topped with Gruyere cheese. Plus, the reasonably priced wine list means this tucked-away gem is set up perfectly for a long, lingering meal. There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

4710 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

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A table full of food dishes. — Dishes at Justine’s.

Bouldin Creek Cafe

1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

Beloved by residents of the 78704 and beyond, this cafe in Bouldin Creek from owner Leslie Martin offers a varied menu of vegetarian fare paired with locally roasted coffee, and a taste of very-old-school Austin in the forms of aesthetics and food. The vegetable sandwiches are legitimately delicious, as is the tofu scramble. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

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A plate of tacos. — Tacos at Bouldin Creek Cafe.

El Naranjo

2717 S Lamar Blvd STE 1085, Austin, TX 78704

The Mexican finer-dining restaurant in the South Lamar neighborhood delivers the best taste of interior Mexico in Austin, thanks to co-owner Iliana de la Vega, the James Beard Award-winning chef in the first-ever Texas category, and her daughter chef Ana Torrealba. The menu focuses on fare from Oaxaca — where de la Vega is from — like rich moles (the duck is a must-order) and hearty cochinita pibil. Takeout orders can be placed online; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in services.

2717 S Lamar Blvd STE 1085, Austin, TX 78704

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A person holding up a blue tortilla with a shrimp on it with one hand and spooning a bowl of shrimp with the other — The camarones y hongos a la macha from El Naranjo.

Casper Fermentables

4715 S Lamar Blvd #101A, Sunset Valley, TX 78745

Some of the city’s best bagels and sandwiches are made at this little casual Sunset Valley deli run by the farmers market stand of the same name. The menus draw from Korean and Jewish food traditions — given the background of co-owner Ben Hollande. During the early daytime, it serves sourdough bagels, with cream cheeses, smoked lox, tuna salads, and more. Then the later-in-the-day lunch offerings include amazing sandwiches made with its springy focaccia bread — the spicy turkey sandwich with Sichuan oil and the kimchi tuna melt are must-orders. Round out the meal with one of its fantastic rugelachs. Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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4715 S Lamar Blvd #101A, Sunset Valley, TX 78745

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Lots of bagels. — Bagels from Casper Fermentables.

Dee Dee

4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Chef Lakana Trubiana cooks up a small but mighty Thai menu from this South Lamar neighborhood truck. The flavorful Isan-style dishes (rooted in the northern region of Thailand) range from comforting om gai to a very spicy laab moo. In the summer, the mango sticky rice is worth it. Takeout orders can to be placed online; host site Radio has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

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4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

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Boxes of food. — Dishes at Dee Dee

Taste of Ethiopia II

3801 S Congress Ave #107, Austin, TX 78704

Owner Woinee Mariam expanded the notable Pflugerville Ethiopian restaurant into the St. Edwards neighborhood. There’s a stellar array of East African dishes, including stews, spiced meats (the chicken-based doro wot is particularly outstanding), and simmered vegetables, all served with injera, a round spongy bread. Go for the sampler, which comes with a bunch of vegetarian dishes such as shiro wot (ground peas stew) and gomen (steamed and spiced chopped collard greens), along with some honey wine. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone; there are indoor dine-in services.

3801 S Congress Ave #107, Austin, TX 78704

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A metal plate of sauces and hole-y bread. — The doro wot at Taste of Ethiopia II.

Distant Relatives

3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744

The McKinney food truck has grown into an essential Austin barbecue spot — there’s a reason Eater named it one of the best restaurants in the country and in the city in 2021. James Beard Awards semifinalist pitmaster Damien Brockway and his team showcase the foodways of the African American diaspora through a deceivingly casual menu. There are succulent chicken legs paired with a chile-vinegar dip, pillowy pulled pork with tangy tamarind-molasses barbecue sauce, and superb sides like burnt ends mixed with black-eyed peas. Takeout orders can be placed in person; host site Meanwhile Brewing has indoor and outdoor dine-in areas.

3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744

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Six dishes in brown cardboard boxes, including nuts, beans, pickled vegetables, and more. — Sides from Distant Relatives.

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